Are you in search of reliable tooth restoration treatments? You might have heard about the rising popularity of zirconia dental crowns. A dental crown is a procedure for treating decayed, damaged, and crooked teeth. Different materials are used in the manufacturing of dental crowns including metals, porcelain, PFM, ceramics, etc. But what is the reason behind the increasing demand for zirconia dental crowns? It’s their ability to provide unmatched strength and picture-perfect smiles.
In this article, we’ll dive into what zirconia dental crowns are, their advantages, and types, and why they’re becoming a go-to option for many dental professionals and patients alike.
What is a Zirconia Dental Crown?
Zirconia dental crown is a tooth restoration treatment that includes placing a custom-made cap over the damaged tooth. These crowns are made from zirconium oxide which is a ceramic material. Although dental crowns do not restore the natural tooth they can help improve the overall health and appearance of teeth. Your dentist may recommend zirconia dental crown if you have:
- Damaged
- Decayed
- Cracked
- Worn-out
- Severely discolored teeth.
Zirconia is an ideal material for dental crowns because it has excellent strength and durability. Zirconia crowns also blend seamlessly into natural teeth.
Types of Zirconia Dental Crowns
There are different types of Zirconia Material used in crowns. Each material provides a unique set of characteristics. Like, zirconia behaves differently at different temperatures. Which zirconia dental crown is suitable for you depends on a wide range of factors. For instance, do you prefer strong material or material that is more pleasing to look at? Here are different types of zirconia dental crowns:
Solid or Monolithic Zirconia Crown
Solid or monolithic zirconia dental crown is made from one single block of zirconia. Due to consistency, a solid zirconia crown is the most durable option. But it has one disadvantage: it is opaque. Front teeth are translucent and if we use a solid zirconia crown it does not provide the best appearance. So, it is difficult to match the natural color of teeth. But if you want a crown procedure for posterior teeth solid zirconia is indeed the best choice.
Layered Zirconia Crown
This type of zirconia dental crown is covered with an outer layer of porcelain. The purpose behind this is to improve the overall look of the crown. With enhanced appearance layered zirconia crown can be used for visible areas like front teeth. However, under extreme conditions, the porcelain layer can chip exposing the less gradient zirconia.
High Translucent Zirconia Crown
Some patients want natural-looking materials that also provide strength. For those patients, a high translucent zirconia crown is the best option. A high translucent zirconia crown allows more light to pass through it. It closely resembles the appearance of natural teeth, providing a lifelike, vibrant look. Compared to traditional zirconia material Ezneer is a high-translucency Zirconia Material by Aidite. It offers high translucency without compromising on strength.
Comparing Zirconia Dental Crowns with other Materials
Let’s take a close look at how zirconia dental crowns compare to other crown materials:
Zirconia Vs Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are particularly popular for their cosmetic appeal. They are almost impossible to spot. While zirconia crowns lack this property. But in terms of strength, the zirconia dental crown always wins. Porcelain crowns are fragile and under high chewing force can crack.
Zirconia Metals Vs Crowns
Different metals including gold, silver, and platinum are used in crowns. Metals are the oldest materials used in dental restorations. They’re super durable lasting 30+ years. But their biggest downside is their appearance. They do not look as natural as zirconia. Also, some people have metal allergies.
Zirconia E-max Vs Crowns
E-max crowns are made from lithium disilicate glass-ceramic. Compared to zirconia crowns, E-max crowns are more translucent but they are not as strong as zirconia crowns. They are not recommended under high chewing forces. From a price point of view, zirconia dental crowns are more affordable.
Zirconia Resin Vs Crowns
Resin crowns are often used as a temporary solution until a more permanent restoration can be placed. They are prone to chipping and do not last long. Zirconia crowns are permanent, last for a longer time, and are resistant to wear.
Advantages of Zirconia Dental Crowns
Here are some exceptional properties of zirconia dental crowns behind their rising popularity:
Exceptional strength: Zirconia crowns come with peace of mind. While chewing your favorite candy you do not need to worry about cracking or fracture of zirconia dental crowns. They are engineered to withstand this force.
Durable: Zirconia crowns do not chip or crack easily because they are resistant to wear.
Natural Appearance: Zirconia crowns appear just like your real teeth providing a natural look.
Hypoallergenic: Are you allergic to metals? No worries because zirconia dental crowns are 100% metal-free and biocompatible. They are gentle on gum tissues and do not cause allergic reactions.
Stain-resistant: Zirconia crowns are resistant to stains and discoloration.
The Process of Getting a Zirconia Dental Crown
Getting a zirconia dental crown involves a few steps. After an initial consultation, your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan for you, including the type of crown and materials to be used.
The next step is tooth shaping. To accommodate the crown dentist will remove any damaged areas of teeth. He will then take dental impressions digitally or by using dental impression material.
The crown is created in the dental lab using the chosen material for example porcelain, ceramic, etc. While the crown is being fabricated, the dentist will place a temporary crown to protect the tooth. The last step is placing the permanent crown and ensuring that it fits properly. To fix the crown dentist will use dental cement.
How Much Does Zirconium Crown Cost?
The price of zirconia crowns varies. They can cost you somewhere between $1000 to $3000. But this price is justified by their exceptional strength and appearance.
FAQs
Do zirconia dental crowns stain?
No, Zirconia dental crowns do not stain. Zirconia crowns are stain-resistant. However, if you do not follow proper oral care your crowns can stain regardless of material.
How long do zirconia dental crowns last?
Generally, zirconia dental crowns can last up to 20 years. But to make them last longer you should follow a proper oral hygiene routine.
What are zirconia crown problems?
Two major flaws of zirconia crowns are low translucency and wear on opposing teeth. Zirconia crowns do not match perfectly with the surrounding teeth. They can also wear down opposing teeth.
Which is better: Dental crown gold vs zirconia?
Gold has been used in restorative dentistry for years and has excellent durability. But it looks very different from natural teeth. Zirconia is not only durable but also looks very pleasing.
What are zirconia crowns made of?
Zirconia dental crowns are made of zirconium dioxide. It is a ceramic material.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration treatment. If you have damaged, decayed, cracked, worn-out, or severely discolored teeth. A crown is a cap which is placed over the affected tooth. It restores the appearance and also improves the overall health of the teeth. A wide range of materials are used for dental crowns but zirconia is a favorite of dentists as well as patients. The reason behind this is its unmatched strength and ability to blend seamlessly in natural teeth. We discussed, how zirconia dental crowns compare to metal, E-max, veneers, and resin crowns. Additionally, we need to know how zirconia dental crowns are placed in teeth. To ensure great results you must use high-quality Zirconia Material. With Aidite‘s zirconia materials, dental professionals can offer patients superior strength, aesthetics, and long-lasting results.